Converting a Birmingham Loft into a Bedroom

You can save money on a bedroom addition by using loft space. Because the roof, walls and floor joists are in place, this cuts expenses on construction materials. Adding exterior windows or dormers can boost your budget, but a well-planned bedroom addition will increase the value to your home. Because a loft is somewhat removed from the house, a converted loft is space that a teenager or college student would enjoy.

Sketch all space you will use for a bedroom area. Designate closet space and electrical outlets. Include bedroom windows or design dormers to be built. Plan to build stairs from the floor below that are at least 4 feet wide as a spacious stairwell creates room to bring building materials and furniture to the bedroom. Check with local authorities to obtain a building permit and a list of regulations before you start construction.

Remove wiring that runs through or across floor joists in the bedroom area. Redirect this wiring to run on the outside perimeter walls of the bedroom space or in ceiling areas. Frame the bedroom space with 2- by 4-inch lumber. Place vertical studs every 18 inches. Insulate all walls and ceiling areas. Install sub-flooring. Hire an expert carpenter or builder to help install one or more exterior or dormer windows.

Install electrical outlets, housing for light fixtures and insulation. Next, drywall the room and ceiling. Frame the walls in the staircase area and install drywall in that area. Finish drywall surfaces with joint compound. Frame closet space and finish with drywall. Hang closet doors and the exterior door for the bedroom. Install crown moulding around the perimeter of the ceiling.

Paint the drywall areas of the bedroom with flat or semi-gloss paint. Paint all wooden trim, door facings and crown moulding with semi-gloss or high-gloss paint. Connect all electrical outlets and light fixtures to wiring.

Install wood flooring or tile in the bedroom area. Finish the staircase leading from another floor and install a sturdy handrail. Install baseboard materials around all floor areas, including interior spaces of the closet. Paint or stain the baseboard sections before you put them in place.

Use slanted ceiling space in a loft to expand the floor space of a bedroom. Tight spaces that will not allow overhead room or elbow room can serve well as storage areas.

Fix all roof areas in dormer areas that need repairs. It’s costly to go back later to fix a leaky roof or repair ceilings affected by moisture problems